Critics' review: War Chhod Na Yaar is a interesting war comedy

India's first war comedy is out in theatres. Based on a noble and interesting idea, War Chhod Na Yaar brings Soha Ali Khan, Sharman Joshi and Javed Jaffrey in one frame. How have they fared?

SPOILERS AHEAD

War Chhod Na Yaar is a satirical but thought-provoking film on the concept of war. Set in an Indo-Pak border post over the course of 24 hours, the film deals with some serious events in a very funny manner. The film is about a unique relationship on the border. While Sharman plays an Indian army officer, Jaffery plays an officer in the Pakistani army. Soha Ali Khan plays a TV journalist in the film, who goes to the border to cover the tension between the two armies. Soha is the only girl in the entire film. The movie also explores international politics.

The treatment of the movie is decent, if not overwhelming, most critics believe.

Shubhra Gupta writes for Indian Express, "The tone seems to be just right in that opening sequence. We are introduced to the benign hostilities that mark life at the Indo-Pak border. Under the watch of Captain Raj (Joshi ) of the Indian army and Captain Qureshi (Jaffrey) of the Pakistan army, the men on either side indulge in stray shooting to keep their hand in, play antakshri, and trade locker-room insults. They do what the army is supposed to — protect their country and follow orders. It is the greedy generals and silly politicians in both countries that are interested in war, not the soldiers."

Mohar Basu (Koimoi) agrees , "Faraz Haider’s War Chhod Na Yaar is a welcome and refreshing satire on wars. The Indo-Pak border counts as one of the world’s most hostile regions but Haider’s tender story dishes out a wickedly told film filled with engaging humor that will have you in splits."

Taran Adarsh (Bollywood Hungama) voices similar sentiments: "War Chhod Na Yaar highlights the relationship between Indian and Pakistani soldiers. The story takes a turn when war breaks out. So what do the soldiers on both the sides do? Can they stop the war? Or do they indulge in warfare? "

As for the performances, the actors seem to have won with critics.

Mohar Basu praises Sharman Joshi for playing his role with utmost effortlessness. Basu adds that, "Soha Ali Khan isn’t an unparalleled actress but doing an author backed role like this one does make her seem like one. Javed Jafferi is stellar as Captain Qureshi."

Taran Adarsh couldn't agree more, "Sharman Joshi and Jaaved Jaaferi are a delight to watch on screen. Sharman proves that he's one of the most sincere performers around, while Jaaved proves that he's truly a versatile actor. Soha Ali Khan enacts the part of a journo for the second time (after Mumbai Meri Jaan), portraying her part credibly. Dalip Tahil gets to portray multiple roles and does an impressive job. Sanjay Mishra is funny at times. Mukul Dev is wasted but Manoj Pahwa is entertaining."

Mohar Basu writes, "Faraz Haider’s War Chhod Na Yaar is a treat of film that manages to evoke moments of ecstatic delight with its simplistic take on the horrific brutality of war which pointlessly creates havoc in the lives of people."

Shubhra Gupta , however is not happy with the overall treatment: "Gags about Chinese products that don't work dry up quite quickly too, so by the time we come to the point where a China-made nuclear bomb is about to go off, it all goes phuss. Pity because the theme, fronted by the two lead actors, had the potential to be a zinger.

This one is a must-watch if the critics' are to be believed. War Chhod Na Yaar may have it's own flaws but the overall effect is likely to turn in it's favour.